Craftsman 150W Power Inverter

When I first got my hands on the Craftsman 150W Power Inverter (model CMCB1150B), I was intrigued by its promise of portability and versatility. As someone who frequently finds myself in need of a reliable power source while on the go, this small device seemed like it could be a game-changer. After using it extensively in various scenarios, I feel well-equipped to share my thoughts on its performance, strengths, and limitations.

The first thing that struck me about the Craftsman power inverter was its compact size and lightweight design. Weighing just 0.7 pounds and small enough to fit comfortably in my hand, it’s incredibly portable. This makes it ideal for camping trips, road trips, or any situation where you might need a quick power source. The durable rubber overmold enhances the grip, ensuring it won't easily slip out of your hand.

One of the standout features of this inverter is its trio of charging options: a Type-A USB port, a Type-C USB port, and an AC outlet. This versatility means you can charge a variety of devices, from smartphones and tablets to laptops and small electronics. I found the inclusion of a USB-C port particularly forward-thinking, as more devices are starting to adopt this standard. The AC outlet is a handy addition, though it does come with some caveats.

The inverter also includes an integrated LED flashlight, which came in handy during a recent power outage. The flashlight is bright enough to illuminate a small room, making it a useful feature for emergency situations. Additionally, the power button allows you to turn the inverter on and off without unplugging your devices, which is a small but thoughtful touch.

In terms of performance, the Craftsman power inverter delivers mixed results. When using it with a 1.5AH V20 battery, I found that it struggled to keep up with the power demands of my Galaxy Fold 1 on the USB-C port. However, when paired with a 2AH or 4AH battery, it performed much better, easily charging my laptop and running a ham radio charging cradle. This suggests that battery capacity significantly impacts the inverter's effectiveness, so investing in higher capacity batteries is advisable if you plan to use it for more demanding tasks.

One of the more frustrating aspects of the inverter is its power efficiency. It seems to consume about 50% more power than it outputs, which can be a deal-breaker for some users. This inefficiency was particularly noticeable when trying to run more power-hungry devices. For example, my Craftsman corded heat gun and angle grinder both failed to operate, even with a 9AH battery. This makes the inverter less suitable for running larger tools and more appropriate for charging smaller electronics.

Despite these limitations, the inverter shines in scenarios where you need a portable power source for low-power devices. On a recent camping trip, it proved invaluable for charging phones, tablets, and even running a small fan for about 30 minutes on a 6AH battery. Its portability and ease of use make it a convenient addition to any travel or emergency kit.

The inverter’s design does have a few misleading aspects. The 120V AC outlet features a three-prong design, yet the ground pin is not functional. This could potentially lead to unsafe usage if users are not aware that the outlet is not grounded. It would have been more transparent for Craftsman to use a two-prong design, avoiding any confusion.

On the brighter side, the inverter’s build quality is excellent. The durable rubber overmold and attached rubber covers for the ports provide added protection, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The device itself is quiet during operation, which is a nice bonus when you’re in a serene environment like a campsite.

Overall, the Craftsman 150W Power Inverter is a handy tool with some notable strengths and a few significant weaknesses. Its compact size, multiple charging options, and integrated flashlight make it a versatile and portable power solution for low-power devices. However, its inefficiency and limited power output restrict its usefulness for more demanding applications.

Would I recommend the Craftsman power inverter? Yes, but with reservations. If you already own Craftsman V20 batteries and need a portable power source for charging small electronics, this inverter is a valuable addition to your toolkit. Its portability, ease of use, and versatility make it a convenient option for camping, travel, and emergency situations. However, if you’re looking to power larger tools or need a highly efficient inverter, you might want to consider other options. Investing in higher capacity batteries will also enhance its performance, making it a more reliable power source for a wider range of devices.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 150W Power Inverter is a good product that excels in specific use cases but falls short in others. Its strengths make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a portable and versatile power solution, but its limitations mean it’s not a one-size-fits-all tool.